Cards: Topps 1990
Acquired: In Person, Dallas Cowboys Training Camp 1991.
Tony Tolbert was drafted in the 4th round of 1989 as an outside linebacker. The Cowboys found him there because he was considered a tweener at 6″6′, 270. Tony was an unsung cornerstone in the dynasty from a draft that produced Troy Aikman, Darryl Johnston, and Mark Stepnoski. Tolbert started as a designated pass rusher and then nailed down the left defensive end position (in 1990) that was formerly held by Cowboys great Ed ‘Too Tall’ Jones. He held down the starting LDE position over the next eight seasons. During the 90s he notched more sacks than any player on the Cowboys and in 1996 was named to the Pro Bowl, and first team All Pro making 12 sacks. Tony constantly suffered from chronic knee problems, and over his career with the team had 7 knee surgeries -which eventually led to his release in 1997. In 2007 he had both knees replaced.
G 144 Tac 531 Sac 59.0 Fum 7
Int 1 Yds 54 Avg 54.0 Td 1
Earl Campbell won the Heisman in 1977 for the University of Texas and was the definition of ‘powerback’. He could literally run over anybody and anything, once even stunning the Longhorn mascot Bevo after a touchdown run. The Houston Oilers, led by Bum Phillips traded to get the #1 pick of the 1978 draft and selected ‘The Tyler Rose’. They could’ve stopped drafting right there… Campbell would go on to win Rookie of the Year honors and MVP honors, while officially the Luv’ Ya Blu era in Houston had begun. The Oilers became the most difficult opponent for the Pittsburgh Steelers that year, due in major part by the cog that was Earl Campbell. From 1978- 1985 Campbell dominated the rushing charts racking up 5 Pro Bowl selections, 3 All Pro selections, 3 offensive player of the year honors, and NFL MVP in 1979. During his 1980 season Campbell ran for a career high 1934 yards, while over the first 4 years of his career rushed for almost 6500 yards and 55 touchdowns. He punished defenders across the board with his rugged play, but by 1982 it began to take a toll on his body. In 1984 he found himself traded to the New Orleans Saints to play for his old coach and mentor Bum Phillips, where he retired after the 1985 season.